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37. Air power demonstration campaigns (‘Control of Air’, ‘Air Strike’, ‘Air Support’)

are made possible through the application of fourteen (14) capabilities as illustrated in
above Figure 5. The application of these capabilities are more relevant during times of
war, but would be counterproductive to undermine its utility at times of peace for
credible defence and deterrence. An elaboration of these air power capabilities is
avoided in this document to maintain focus on the object. However, further referencing
is advised for an informed mind.

38. Air power has significant attributes or characteristics; Positive, Conditional and

Negative.

a. Positive – Elevation, Speed, Reach, Flexibility, Versatility, Pervasiveness.

b. Conditional – Sensitivity to technology, cost effectiveness, political
responsiveness.

c. Negative – Impermanence, vulnerability, cost, base dependency, payload.

39. The above attributes/characteristics of air power exemplify the need for robust

‘Support Activities’ which ensures that a particular air force is well equipped, resourced
and coordinated to deliver desired capabilities to achieve desired effects.

Evolution of Air Power in the Maritime Environment

40. The use of air power first appeared in maritime doctrines during WWI. First,

these air assets were used as ‘spotters’ which later expanded into acquiring information
of enemy positions and dispositions. During WWII, air power was developed into
delivering ordnance in support of land forces. In the Pacific theatre, the application of
air power was more revolutionized with its utility onboard carrier platforms.

41. These applications of air power were governed with the assumption that air
power is an extension of land and maritime powers. With the advances in technology
and operational concepts this presumption stands contested. ‘Operations Iraqi
Freedom’ and the 1997 Kosovo air campaigns are classical case studies in this regard. In
the present context the application of unmanned systems has compounded its
application even more.

42. The war in Ukraine, Houthi attacks on merchant commerce in the Gulf of Aden

and the frenzy for weaponizing unmanned systems in an age of AI has left us a lot to
contemplate. Indeed, space has become the final frontier for the time being and we need
to be astute and pragmatic to evolve in an age of technological advances. Definitely no
one wishes to be left behind on a crumb trail.

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